PENNSYLVANIA — The future of Pennsylvania’s agriculture industry just got a little brighter. Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding announced yesterday that 47 organizations across 24 counties are set to receive a total of $498,161 in PA Farm Bill Agriculture & Youth Grants. The grants aim to prepare the next generation for success in Pennsylvania’s robust $132.5 billion agriculture industry.
Secretary Redding made the announcement during the 2024 PA Farm Show’s “So You Want to Be a Farmer” segment, an initiative designed to educate and inspire individuals interested in raising food or flowers for leisure, profit, or as part of a new career path.
Addressing the complexities of climate change, market shifts, and rapidly evolving technology, Redding emphasized the need for innovative problem-solvers in Pennsylvania’s agriculture sector. He touted the Shapiro Administration’s commitment to ensuring young people have both the freedom to choose their paths and the preparation to seize the opportunities ahead.
The 2023-24 budget marks the fifth year of Ag & Youth Grants through the PA Farm Bill. Since its inception in 2019, the initiative has invested nearly $2 million in 194 projects statewide. Overall, more than $150 million has been directed towards growing Pennsylvania’s agriculture industry through the PA Farm Bill.
Among the recipients of this year’s grants is Fox Chase Farm, which received a $25,000 matching grant to fund an automated, mobile chicken house. Dr. Mandy Manna of the School District of Philadelphia praised the project as a symbol of cutting-edge free-range poultry production and a valuable educational tool for students.
The 2023-24 budget further invests another $13.8 million in the PA Farm Bill, supporting initiatives including Pennsylvania’s Commission for Agriculture Education Excellence, youth education, and workforce development. This includes the largest increase ever in basic K-12 education funding, expanded apprenticeships and career and technology training, and ongoing efforts to expand broadband internet access in rural communities.
In addition to providing up to $7,500 in direct funding and matching grants of up to $25,000, the PA Farm Bill Ag and Youth Grants support projects, programs, and equipment purchases by youth-run organizations. They also fund programs that promote agriculture, community leadership, vocational training, and peer networking.
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